Mining in Armenia
Small countries' natural resources
New role in the global context
Small states and their mining operations hold a unique position in the global context. Despite their limited resources and capacities compared to larger counterparts, they make significant contributions to the global mineral supply chain. In geopolitically vulnerable regions with significant national security concerns, natural resources assume a crucial role in safeguarding the country's security. Mining for security implies the ultimate ownership of natural resources by the people of that country through mutually beneficial partnerships with global industry leaders and financial institutions.
Small countries' natural resources
New role in the global context
Small states and their mining operations hold a unique position in the global context. Despite their limited resources and capacities compared to larger counterparts, they make significant contributions to the global mineral supply chain. In geopolitically vulnerable regions with significant national security concerns, natural resources assume a crucial role in safeguarding the country's security. Mining for security implies the ultimate ownership of natural resources by the people of that country through mutually beneficial partnerships with global industry leaders and financial institutions.
Republic of Armenia in mining
Potential for Resources, Commitment to Responsibility
Armenia boasts a rich mining history and possesses diverse mineral resources. The government is dedicated to responsible mining practices, evidenced by comprehensive legal frameworks. Through active cooperation with local and international stakeholders, Armenia seeks partnerships to enhance mining practices and adhere to global standards. The country aims to develop a sustainable and inclusive mining industry, which has to be based that promotes economic growth, safeguards the environment, and benefits local communities.
Republic of Armenia in mining
Potential for Resources, Commitment to Responsibility
Armenia boasts a rich mining history and possesses diverse mineral resources. The government is dedicated to responsible mining practices, evidenced by comprehensive legal frameworks. Through active cooperation with local and international stakeholders, Armenia seeks partnerships to enhance mining practices and adhere to global standards. The country aims to develop a sustainable and inclusive mining industry, which has to be based that promotes economic growth, safeguards the environment, and benefits local communities.
Armenia is number 23 in ICMM’s Mining Contribution Index (MCI), which aims to understand the significance of the mining sector’s contribution to national economies by creating a ranking of the relative importance of mining to the economy of a country. According to S&P the Future of Copper Full Report from 22 July Armenia’s copper mine capacity for 2022 was 100,000 metric tones, while neighboring Georgia (10,000 metric tons) and Azerbaijan (3000 metric tons) reported much smaller capacities.
Armenia is number 23 in ICMM’s Mining Contribution Index (MCI), which aims to understand the significance of the mining sector’s contribution to national economies by creating a ranking of the relative importance of mining to the economy of a country. According to S&P the Future of Copper Full Report from 22 July Armenia’s copper mine capacity for 2021 was 100,000 metric tones, while neighboring Georgia (10,000 metric tons) and Azerbaijan (3000 metric tons) reported much smaller capacities.
The mining industry in Armenia employs around 8,000 people. In 2019, mining accounted for 48% of Armenia's total exports, with copper and molybdenum concentrates being the largest export commodities. In 2020, Armenia produced 16,400 tons of copper concentrate, 3,100 kg of molybdenum concentrate, and 2,300 kg of zinc concentrate. The country has potential reserves of copper, molybdenum, gold, silver, and other minerals.
